Chris Rea is an English rock and blues singer-songwriter, known for his husky voice, deft slide guitar work, and a string of hits that have established him as one of the UK's preeminent artists of the late 20th century. Born on March 4, 1951, in Middlesbrough, his distinctively smooth, yet melancholic style has won the hearts of fans across the globe. Rea began his career in the 1970s and rose to fame with his 1978 hit "Fool (If You Think It's Over)" which earned him a Grammy nomination. However, it was the 1989 release of "The Road to Hell" that solidified his standing as a rock icon, featuring the eponymous track that remains a classic in his extensive catalog.

Throughout his career, Chris Rea has been effectively immortalized through a diverse discography that showcases his love for different blues styles and unique storytelling ability. His ambitious "Blue Guitars" project, which comprises a staggering 11 album set released in 2005, is a testament to his admiration and exploration of the blues genre. It categorizes the blues by its many influences and regional sounds, with individual albums dedicated to styles such as Celtic & Irish blues, Electric Memphis blues, and Latin blues. Recent remasters of his work, including "From Love to Love" and "Cleveland Calling," along with live recordings like "The Road To Hell And Back," offer both longtime fans and new listeners alike an opportunity to experience the depth and warmth of Rea's artistry anew. With a career spanning over four decades, Chris Rea remains an enduring figure in music, combining heartfelt lyrics with a masterful blend of rock and blues.

Genres

Soft Rock

Sophisti-pop

Related Artists

Eric Clapton

Mark Knopfler

Dire Straits

Joe Cocker

J.J. Cale

Van Morrison

John Mayall

Gary Moore

Joe Bonamassa

Boz Scaggs

Rory Gallagher

Robert Cray

Latest Release

From Love To Love (2020 Remaster)

Chris Rea

Single - Released November 6, 2020